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Creative SavingsThu, 15 Feb 2018 15:36:03 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.4https://kalynbrooke.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/cropped-KB-Favicon-512-32x32.pngKalyn Brookehttps://kalynbrooke.com
3232https://kalynbrooke.com/life-and-style/books-and-reading/reading-habits/How to Know What to Read Next (Every Time)http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/526490694/0/creativesavingsblog~How-to-Know-What-to-Read-Next-Every-Time/
http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/526490694/0/creativesavingsblog~How-to-Know-What-to-Read-Next-Every-Time/#respondThu, 15 Feb 2018 11:00:52 +0000https://kalynbrooke.com?p=36420&preview=true&preview_id=36420Instead of reading more books, what if you focused on reading the RIGHT books? As an intentional reader, you have the power to shape and influence your life based on the next book you pick up. Here's my 3-step system for deciding what your next book should be.

During almost every visit to my grandmother's house, I gravitate toward her tightly packed bookshelves and the stack of books resting in the basket next to her favorite recliner.

My grandmother is a diverse reader. From biographies to memoirs, to theology and books about current events, she is always in the middle of two or three books at a time.

And I remember her distinctly saying when I reached high school age, “If you want to be well-read, you have to expand your reading tastes.” At the time, I was knee deep in fluffy Christian fiction reads, which I rather enjoyed, and I couldn't imagine reading anything else.

I didn't want to shy away from challenging reads just because I couldn't fly through it in an afternoon. I really did want to broaden my horizons. Learn more about how the world works. And discover a way to grow as a person, through my reading.

Don't get me wrong—it's still important to pick up books that excite you! I'm a sucker for good reviews and usually only read books recommended to me–sometimes from multiple sources! I also will set a book down without guilt if I'm not interested by the third chapter, no matter what genre it is.

How about you?

When you look over your “Read” list, do the titles accurately reflect the type of books you want to read? Or could you branch out? Do you want to experience new places, people, and ideas?

As an intentional reader, you have the power to shape and influence your life based on the next book you pick up. Here's my 3-step system for deciding what that next book should be.

1. Define your Reading Goals

Just like you have goals for your life, you can set goals for your reading habits too. Here are some questions to ask to determine your goals:

What do you want to learn more about?

Do you want to explore the world through travel memoirs?

Do you like getting to know historic figures through their biographies?

Do you desire to learn practical tips to improve your health?

Do you dream of discovering new ways to launch or scale your home business?

Knowing yourself and your interests is the first step to expanding your reading life. As I noted before, I'd read only fiction if I had the chance! But my reading goal is I want to develop my reading life in terms of productivity and personal growth, as well as read business books to improve and grow as an entrepreneur.

So the books I typically pick up fit either in the fiction, personal development, or business category. I try to have a good mix of all three going at once and focus on one from each category every month.

2. Make an Intentional To-Read List

List maker as you are, you probably already have a “to be read” list somewhere. But now it's time to make an intentional to-read list with books from the goals you've honed in on above.

You can do this using Goodreads (here's my list!), an Amazon Wish List, or creating a paper list inside your bullet journal. The key is to keep every title you want to read in one place so you always know where to go when it's time to choose another book.

Where to find good books:

Modern Mrs. Darcy's What Should I Read Next? podcast (I get a lot of my book ideas from her blog but especially love her podcast interviews!)

Book recommendations from friends (Conversations often turn to books and we often swap titles we can't stop thinking about.)

3. Create a System for Reading

If you really do want to create better reading habits, simply adding a title to a list and hoping you get a chance to read it probably isn't going to be enough. Sometimes you need to add a fun step to get that book off your nightstand or bookshelf and into your hands!

You could:

Participate in a reading challenge like this annual event hosted by Modern Mrs. Darcy. Or follow Ana on Instagram for a peek into readathons, book parties, and more. You might be challenged to read books waiting patiently on your to-read list, reading books with a person on the cover (novels, biographies), and reading books in a row that begin with every letter of the alphabet.

Establish a routine to fit reading into your day at strategic times. In the morning after my devotions, I read a business book to get me pumped for the day or I read a personal book to think on throughout the day. I savor my fiction books for only at bed (I don't want to think at night!).

Start a Bookstagram (book-only Instagram account) or book blog. Writing a review or posting a photo of your next read keeps you accountable with your reading goals and as an added perk, you get to share the love of reading with a like-minded community.

Join a bookclub. If there's not one in your area, start one! Or you could get together with a bookish friend, pick the same book to read, and discuss it each week over coffee. Reading a book with friends is sometimes even more fun than reading it alone.

Just so we're clear, reading intentionally is not about a list of rules of what you should and shouldn't read. It's about expanding your horizons into the type of reader you want to be.

As I've pushed back the fictional curtain and immersed myself in more thought-provoking reads, I've experienced a greater sense of well-being. Some of the books that have impacted me the most were non-fiction titles I would have normally passed by:

I've created more margin in my life as a result of reading The Best Yes.

I've completely revamped my goal-setting structure and get MORE done because I recently read The 12 Week Year.

Maybe you're the opposite and you haven't read fiction in so long you can't remember why you stopped. Find a good story and rediscover the joy of losing yourself in a novel. Whatever book you decide to pick up next, give a little more thought to what kind of books you want to influence and shape your life.

Because it's not about reading as many books as you can. It's about reading the RIGHT books.

What genre would you love be more intentional about?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

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http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/526490694/0/creativesavingsblog~How-to-Know-What-to-Read-Next-Every-Time/feed/0https://kalynbrooke.com/house-and-home/increase-home-value/10 Improvement Projects to Get the Most Value from Your Homehttp://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/525816720/0/creativesavingsblog~Improvement-Projects-to-Get-the-Most-Value-from-Your-Home/
http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/525816720/0/creativesavingsblog~Improvement-Projects-to-Get-the-Most-Value-from-Your-Home/#respondTue, 13 Feb 2018 11:00:10 +0000https://kalynbrooke.com?p=36384&preview=true&preview_id=36384Even if you don't plan on selling your house anytime soon, you'll probably list it someday. So start with the project that offers the biggest bang for your buck and make it your top priority this summer. Psst... some of the easiest updates cost nothing but offer tremendous ROI!

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Even if you don't plan on selling your house anytime soon, you'll probably list it someday. Start with the project that will increase home value the most and make it your top priority this summer. Psst… some of the easiest updates cost nothing but offer tremendous ROI!

Joseph and I often joke that we renovate houses just in time for us to leave them.

In New York, we spent over $15,000 re-insulating the attic, drywalling, and turning our first home into a user-friendly space. A year later, we moved to Florida.

Now that we're considering another investment into updated countertops and a much-anticipated (by me, anyway) farmhouse sink, we're also contemplating selling our house here and heading on that RV adventure we often dream about.

Which begs the question…do you ever get back the money you put into a mega home update?

Sometimes.

Obviously, you don't want to sink a ton of money into a home or location that won't retain it's value. That's the mistake we made in New York, and we ended up selling our first home for 82% less than the original purchase price. Ouch!

But in a great market with a home that's actually worth renovating, and by choosing the right updates {looking back, our attic reno wasn't worth the utility savings or resale value}, you can expect a higher price when it comes time to sell.

You don't even have to invest a ton of money if you don't want to either. There are plenty of smaller updates you can tackle to make sure your home looks its absolute best.

The following ideas will help you decide where to improve and what to spend your money on.

SAVE WITH FOCUS

Rize is an easy, painless way to save toward your home updates. Interest earned is better than a regular savings account, and best of all, it's FREE!

1. Address the basics

Pretend you are looking at your home with a fresh pair of eyes—as someone who has never been there before. Do you see mold growing on your back deck? Dirty window tracks? Rusty rain gutters? Are there weeds growing into your flower beds? Take a couple weekends to address basic issues that you've often overlooked (but that potential buyers will notice right away!).

2. Carve out a home office

With more people ditching the commute and choosing to work from home, home office spaces are in popular demand. Whether it's part of a separate room or a small space nestled in a hallway or other living space, make sure the area has adequate outlets for multiple devices.

3. Ditch the popcorn ceilings

Popcorn ceilings are just another way your home is saying, “I'm a few decades too late!” Get your ceilings tested for asbestos first, and if the coast is clear, you can easily tackle this project in a weekend. For investors, this update probably won't be worth it, but for home-owners, it's a definite must.

4. Clear the clutter!

First impressions count. If all people see when they walk in the door to your home (or when they're browsing photos of your listing online!) are mounds of countertop clutter, they're more likely to focus on the distractions rather than the permanent fixtures behind those distractions.

I know it may sound silly, but cleaning your house can increase home value to the average home buyer. Plus, you have a great excuse to participate in a fun decluttering challenge!

5. Remodel the bathroom, or just update the bathroom fixtures or floor

I'm sure you've heard it said before—bathrooms and kitchens are the number one places to invest in home renovations and repairs. But if you don't have a huge budget with which to remodel the entire room, a few cost-effective changes, including updating light fixtures and faucets, or adding a new tile floor, will go a long way.

6. Revitalize the kitchen

Potential buyers are especially into wide open floor plans, which allows for ease of entertaining without hindering conversation. If your kitchen is more closed off, you'll want to consider a bigger change, like knocking out an extra wall or removing the island. But even a small swap—like a new stainless steel microwave or sink—can add big value to your home, too.

7. Replace worn carpeting

If your carpets have stains, tears, or are generally just falling apart, replace the worst offenders as soon as your finances allow. Buyers are especially turned off when they realize they have to foot the bill to replace all the carpeting, and nothing is worse than stepping on gross carpet!

8. Freshen up with new paint

Paint is a relatively cost-effective update, and it does wonders to improve the fresh feel of your home. I'm sure you can think of a few spots where grubby hands and backs of chairs have made unattractive smudges on the wall! Stick with neutral colors and you won't scare any potential buyers away.

9. Make your front door inviting

Remember what I said before about first impressions? The front door is one of the first things people see on their way inside. Take time to make it cozy and inviting with a fresh coat of paint. Or simply make a trip to your local nursery for flowers and arrange a few potted plants near the entrance.

10. Replace your garage doors

Beat-up, dented, or peeling paint on the outside of a garage door is one way to scare off potential purchasers. While on average, the cost may run up to about $2,791 to replace everything, depending on how many doors you have, this home project has one heck of an ROI (return on investment): 83.7%!

Again, updating your home isn't necessarily going to guarantee you'll get money back on your investment. It's just like the stock market; you have to make the best decision with the best information you have at the time. So remember this good advice:

“Before you decide on a remodel, consider the cost versus the value, and decide if the remodel you want to do is a worthy investment.” – HomeAdvisor

Even if you're only looking to improve your home for your personal enjoyment, it's worth keeping these particular projects in mind as you consider tackling an update and prioritize all you want to do.

You will probably sell your home someday. So start with the update on this list that will lead to the biggest bang for your buck and make it your top priority project this summer!

What project have you considered doing to increase home value?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Rest assured, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

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http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/525816720/0/creativesavingsblog~Improvement-Projects-to-Get-the-Most-Value-from-Your-Home/feed/0https://kalynbrooke.com/life-and-style/holiday-fun/galentines-day-gift-ideas/10 Perfect Gifts to Give to Your Besties this Galentine’s Dayhttp://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/524127104/0/creativesavingsblog~Perfect-Gifts-to-Give-to-Your-Besties-this-Galentines-Day/
http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/524127104/0/creativesavingsblog~Perfect-Gifts-to-Give-to-Your-Besties-this-Galentines-Day/#respondThu, 08 Feb 2018 11:00:13 +0000https://kalynbrooke.com/?p=36311Move over guys, because on February 13th we're all about ladies celebrating ladies! These hand-picked Galentine's Day gifts shower your BFF with all the love and appreciation she deserves.

Yep, that's not a typo. Galentine's Day is a pseudo-holiday turned actual thing and I'm really digging it this year!

Galentine's Day isn't about the romantic kind of love that typically defines Valentine's Day (psst…if you need a gift for your significant significant other, you'll find 10 gifts under $10 HERE), rather, it's expressing the love and appreciation of your best friends on February 13th. The ones who support you through thick and thin.

Your gal-pals.

Life sure knows we need them!

So whether you've been invited to a Galentine's Day party (yep, those happen too!) or want to pick up a little something to show your BFF's how much they mean to you, you're going to love this hand-picked selection of Galentine's Day gifts…all under $25.

1. You're the Lorelai to my Rory Mug

Any Gilmore Girl fans in the house? Make your best friend (or mom who IS your best friend!) cry when they receive this charming ceramic mug. No hand-washing here—your gift is completely dishwasher safe. {$10.99 on Etsy}

2. Heart Trinket Dish

For an accessories-loving friend, grab this functional yet chic trinket dish at an incredibly affordable price. From rings, earrings, necklaces, and lip balm, this nightstand must-have corrals them all. {$12.60 on Shopbop}

3. Happy Galentine's Day Socks

Your girlfriends will proudly wear these statement-making socks in support of ladies celebrating ladies. All you really need are your gal-pals…and a comfy pair of these warming your feet. {$9.95 on Etsy}

4. Heart Hoop Earrings

Perfect for both an everyday look or going out on the town, these dainty heart hoop earrings will look stunning as they grace your girlfriend's ears. {$11.99 on Etsy}

5. Bestie Book

Tell your BFF why you can't live without her with this fill-in-the-blank gift book she will read over and over again. Make each page as sweet or silly as you choose! {$11.53 on Amazon}

6. Long-Distance BFF candle

Do you and your bestie live miles apart? Grab one of these handmade soy candles {there are over a dozen scents to choose from!} to remind her that distance doesn't matter when it comes to your friendship. {$20 on Etsy}

7. Fight Like a Girl Shirt

Girl power ALL THE WAY. This soft, slim-fit tee proudly challenges the negative stereotype that “like a girl” means you're weak. Be a part of the movement that redefines this message and bring out the inner warrior inside your gal-pal. {$22 on Etsy}

8. Galentine's Day Book

Grab your creative tools and have fun coloring intricate card designs you can tear out and share with all your besties. The phrases range from punny, sweet, and cute, and you even have space to jot a personalized note on the back. {$11.17 on Amazon}

9. Wooden Photo Clip

Choose a few of your favorite photos and gift them with a sentiment your friend will love to display. The simple yet distressed design fits with any color scheme! {$12.99 on Amazon}

10. Star Necklace

This delicate and understated necklace comes beautifully packaged with a sentiment your best friend will adore. Nab one for yourself, too, so you both think of each other every time you wear it. {$19.35 on Etsy}

Until and after Galentine's Day is declared an official holiday, let's use this female movement to celebrate the gals in your life who love you despite those weird quirks we all have. Send a text, a handwritten note, or choose one of these small tokens of appreciation to send your bestie's way.

And if you're looking to go all overachiever like, you can even throw your own Galentine's day party. Here are some cute decoration ideas!

Do You Celebrate Galentine's Day?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Rest assured, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

Crinkled in the bottom of my purse, wadded up in Joseph's pockets, ribbons of long, flimsy paper—usually from CVS—strewn across the countertops, and {oops!} sometimes left in a wadded up grocery bag that was tossed away.

In a way, receipts are essential, because they are a physical record of our spending. And if you're a savvy budgeter, you'll want to keep track of every receipt so you don't spend more than you earn. But they're also a huge paper-clutter pain.

Before my receipt organization system, this is how I organized my receipts:

Using labeled junk envelopes, this “system” was certainly cheap enough. But ugly too. It wasn't really a system because it consisted of one step: file receipt in an envelope when finished. Not. That. Organized.

Now, in my new and improved receipt organization system, every {and I do mean every!} receipt goes through a 3-step process that ensures I keep every receipt neat and tidy in case of future returns and in preparation for tax time.

If you adopt and customize these three steps in your home, you'll be able to find any receipt you need easily!

1. Establish a Holding Station for Receipts

To eliminate wads of receipts strewn everywhere, designate a Receipt Jar where everyone can put receipts the minute they walk in the door. I bought this cute little jar at Hobby Lobby, but you could also pick up any clear jar and add a chalkboard label yourself.

My decluttering/organizing motto is every item should have a place. Generally, if papers are piling up on the counter, it's because you don't know where to put them. So, find a spot, and see just how easy things are to put away!

2. Process Receipts Each Week

Whether you use a budgeting app, an excel spreadsheet, or old-fashioned pen and paper, it's a good idea to set aside at least 30 minutes on the same day each week to go through the receipts you collected, record, and categorize them.

For me, this happens every Friday.

I pull out all the receipts from the Receipt Jar, and I add them to my expense spreadsheet under the proper category. If it's a grocery or gas receipt—generally something I won't need to reference later—I just throw the receipt away. {After checking Ibotta, of course!}

For all remaining receipts, I file them away in their proper place. More on that next…

3. Create a Filing System

I generally see three types of receipts come into our household—personal, business, and charity. Each of those three categories has a different filing system.

For personal receipts, I use a small expandable file {I found mine at Office Depot for $2!} organized by month. I don't keep that many receipts, so it's nice to have something that's isn't bulky, as well as long enough for receipts to fit in nicely rather than folded three to four times.

At the beginning of each new month, I remove last year's receipts and throw them away because I know I won't be able to return whatever item was on the receipt I saved from a year ago.

If you don't want to organize your receipts by month, you could try one of these options:

Organize by category of expense {this could get tricky if you shop at Target and have clothing purchases mixed in with your groceries}

Organize by type of payment—debit, credit, cash, check

FYI: I saw these cute file labels on clearance at Michaels for $1 and couldn't resist grabbing them for this project! You can also create your own labels via a label maker and add a strip of washi tape behind them for extra color.

For business receipts, I'll snap a photo with the Evernote app {which scans the receipt into a specific folder} so my bookkeeper—AKA my mom— can put the information in the appropriate Quickbooks account. Then I trash the receipt since I already have a digital copy.

For charity receipts, items I've donated to Goodwill or things I've bought for the animal rescue I work with, I have a designated envelope with a printable that explains what the item was for and how much I spent/donated. That way, I can total the amounts up at the end of the year and give that info to my CPA for our tax return.

Note: For any receipts that come through via email {for Amazon, etc}, I record those the same as I would a regular receipt each Friday on my expense spreadsheet, then I archive it. I don't bother printing out the email because if I need to reference the purchase, I can quickly search Gmail to find it.

Lastly, all file folders are kept right inside my finance notebook so I have everything I need for those Friday finance meetings. It's so handy to have it all in one place!

There are plenty of different ways to organize receipts—this is just a peek into my three-step system—but I hope you've found it helpful as you figure out what to do with your own paper pile. For me, this has been a clutter-saving sanity saver!

No longer do I have receipts wandering aimlessly across the countertops. Now I know exactly how to process a receipt from start to finish without hanging onto a bunch of unnecessary paperwork.

Plus, I can find what I need when I need it, instead of searching through my wallet or purse…or even worse, hope it hasn't gone through the wash in somebody's pocket.

Let's chat about receipt organization:

Do you have a different system? What receipts do you save/toss?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Rest assured, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

Free Mini Course

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http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/523352438/0/creativesavingsblog~How-to-Easily-Organize-Your-Receipts-for-the-Entire-Year/feed/2https://kalynbrooke.com/life-and-style/holiday-fun/valentines-day-ideas-at-home/In Honor of Valentine’s Day, Here Are 12 Ideas for a Cozy Night Inhttp://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/522018960/0/creativesavingsblog~In-Honor-of-Valentines-Day-Here-Are-Ideas-for-a-Cozy-Night-In/
http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/522018960/0/creativesavingsblog~In-Honor-of-Valentines-Day-Here-Are-Ideas-for-a-Cozy-Night-In/#commentsThu, 01 Feb 2018 13:00:19 +0000http://creativesavingsblog.com/?p=2234No need to fight the crowds or call in a babysitter. These super creative Valentines Day ideas at home help you create the cozy, romantic evening you've been dreaming of!

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No need to fight the crowds or call in a babysitter. These super creative Valentines Day ideas at home help you create the cozy, romantic evening you've been dreaming of!

It's always nice to go out for Valentine's Day, but sometimes a cozy evening at home sounds like heaven compared to a noisy dinner at a crowded restaurant, amiright?

From one homebody to another, I totally get the appeal of a romantic night in—a night when you don't have to hire a babysitter, worry about being late for your reservation, or choose heels over your comfy flats.

So in name of saving money…and your sanity, here's how to create an equally epic Valentine's day, right at home.

1. Host a fondue party for two

Dust off your fondue pot and set out pretzels, marshmallows, strawberries, or anything else you want to dip in chocolate! If you don't have a fondue set, you can still have a lot of fun with a double boiler and melted chocolate chips. For an extra bonus, pair your fondue night with a round of Chocolate-opoly.

2. Pull out a favorite game or learn a new one

3. Eat dinner off fun disposable plates

I know it's not eco friendly, but you can score some great deals on paper products at Michaels or Target, and it's less you have to wash! Keep an eye out for after-Valentine's Day deals and snag a few stacks for next year.

6. Dig out the crafting supplies and make each other a V-day card

7. Snuggle on the couch for a movie night

A movie night at home is much cheaper than going out to the theater and there are always Redbox deals floating around the internet that will give you a free rental or knock $.50 off a DVD. Add popcorn for the whole home-theater experience.

8. Declare your own #Throwback Thursday

It's always fun to remember the good times and share a laugh or two. Go through photo albums, Facebook pictures, journal entries, and/or letters, and relive the memories. While you're at it, fill out this Couples Journal as a way to commemorate everything you love about one another.

9. Brainstorm future date night ideas

Set a timer and jot down as many date night {or day!} ideas you can think of. Then narrow it down to your favorite twelve and nab Lauren's printable to make your own pre-planned date nights mini book.

10. Make it a spa night

Light candles {this is the best smelling scent you'll ever experience}, dim the lights, and unwind with a massage or soak in a hot bath. If you treat yourself to a new nail polish earlier in the day, you now have a legitimate excuse to pretty up your fingers and toes.

11. Plan a dream vacation

Choose a spot you both are dying to visit and plan your itinerary as if you were really going! Need some ideas? Flip through this travel book together, then take the first step to make your dream come true by opening a Rize Account and stash away $25 toward that goal.

12. Tackle a DIY

Scan all those projects you've saved on Pinterest and settle on one you're both excited to work on together at home. Shop for all the supplies a few days before V-day, then put on some tunes and start creating!

Whatever activity you choose, I hope you have a romantic and equally fun Valentine's Day—one that encourages you to step back from the busy and appreciate that special someone in your life.

Which at-home date idea is your favorite?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Rest assured, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.Read my full disclosure policy here.

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Say goodbye to crafting clutter and hello to craft organization goals! Whether you love sewing, stamping, scrapbooking, knitting, or any other type of creative hobby, organizing craft supplies is a total breeze with over 40 inspirational ideas to conquer the mess.

When we were packing up our belongings to make the long-distance move to the Sunshine state, one of my New York friends glanced at the towering boxes in the corner of my craft area and confronted me with the cold hard truth: I was a craft supply hoarder.

What can I say? I like options when the crafty bug bites!

But this has led to a closet overflowing with a ridiculous amount of supplies. And when I say craft closet, I mean CRAFT closet. When I open the doors, it's like Hobby Lobby on a slightly smaller scale.

Here a sample of what's inside:

All my scrapbooking supplies from years past {even though I no longer scrapbook}

But as I embrace more simplicity and minimalism in my life, I find myself ready to let go of the clutter.

I don't want all that stuff.

I want only to keep the few things that are most important to me and that I can see myself actually using when I feel the urge to create.

And so without further ado, my BIG home project for 2018 is decluttering and organizing my entire craft closet.

The First Step

I'm currently in the decluttering phase, weeding through items I don't use anymore to donate or trash, but I've also been the on the hunt forinspiration so I know exactly how I want to organize what I have left.

And WOW, I found total craft organization goals!

It seemed selfish to keep all these awesome ideas to myself, so if you're ready for a craft supply refresh of your own, browse my selections here to get inspired, too.

Scrapbook Paper:

If you have a lot of paper to store, this paper bookcase (1) is a color explosion of organized eye candy.

All these swoon-worthy systems make my heart go pitter-patter! I can't wait until I move onto the organization phase of my goal and can implement some of these ideas. Keep an eye out for what I end up using in a future blog post!

Now it's time for me to get to work.

Do you have any big organizing projects on your list this year?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Rest assured, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

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Ever wondered how to make chocolate covered strawberries? These are super easy to recreate at home, and cost pennies compared to expensive online shops. The perfect treat for a romantic night in or as yummy Valentine's Day gift for your sweetheart!

I don't know if you've seen the price of gourmet strawberries lately, but they are expennnn-sive.

At Shari's Berries, one dozen chocolate-covered strawberries sells for a whopping $44.98, plus, an additional $14.99 shipping charge. If I do my math correctly, ONE strawberry costs approximately $5.00.

Pretty or not, that's a lot of money for one fancy bite of fruit!

The thing is, chocolate covered strawberries are not all that hard to make. There are a few tricks to make sure the process is as flawless as possible, but anyone can do it.

And once you learn, think of the possibilities! Date night at home, bridal shower finger foods, and even Valentine's Day make the perfect occasion to show off your culinary skills that cost pennies compared to expensive online shops.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Step 1: Wash strawberries thoroughly and pat dry. Make sure there is no condensation or wet spots on the berry prior to dipping, otherwise, the chocolate will get a little wonky. Another tip is to let the strawberries come to room temperature so condensation doesn't form when the cold berry hits warm chocolate.

Step 2: Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a double boiler over low heat, without letting the water in the bottom of the boiler touch the bottom of the top pan. Place 1 tbsp of vegetable shortening for every 2 cups of chocolate chips that you melt to make the mixture silky smooth. Stir continuously until all chocolate has melted.

Step 3: Hold strawberry by the leaves and dip until 3/4 coated. Lightly shake excess chocolate off strawberry and place carefully on a baking sheet lined with wax paper. If leaves fall off, use a toothpick to dip and pull strawberry out of the chocolate.

Step 4: Melt white chocolate in double boiler using the same process as semi-sweet chocolate, and drizzle over strawberries with a fork or small spatula.

Step 5: Let chocolate harden in fridge, then gift or enjoy them yourself!

Did you try this recipe?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

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Are you ready for tax season? Keep your documents in order with this easy-to-use Tax Preparation Checklist. Whether you file your own, or use a CPA, this handy cheat sheet will make sure you remember everything!

You would think that someone who loves being organized would have all her tax ducks in a row. And quacking like the good little ducks they are.

But nope, not me.

I stay far far away from anything that has to do with the government and money. Nothing makes any sense, gives me some pretty bad anxiety, and raises my blood pressure. And no, I'm not joking!

One thing is for sure though, it doesn't matter whether I do taxes myself or trust a professional…I almost always forget to gather all the right documents. I constantly misplace at least one or two important items, and spend more time trying to find the information I need when our taxes could be done and over with. It's SO frustrating!

Which is why this checklist has been a lifesaver.

Instead of forgetting what I need to hand off to my CPA each year, I just check off each item and file the corresponding paperwork in a specific tax folder for that year. Then I grab the entire stack for my yearly appointment, drop it off at the CPA office, and it's DONE.

I thought a resource like this might be helpful to you as well, so be sure to grab your copy of my printable Tax Prep Checklist below!

Your Handy Cheat Sheet

Keep your documents in order with this easy-to-use tax prep checklist!

How to Use the Tax Prep Checklist

Every CPA will have their own list of what you should bring to your tax appointment. But if you are doing taxes yourself or want a basic version that doesn't have hundreds of “if” scenarios, this is your go-to resource.

This checklist explains the most important items you should remember when compiling your tax documents, with sections broken down based on whether or not you own property, have your own business, or find yourself in other miscellaneous situations.

I even ran the list by my CPA to make sure everything on there was accurate, and he helped me make a few changes. So this is definitely CPA certified!

Of course, I can't account for every individual's tax needs out there, {check with a CPA just in case}, but this should give you a fabulous starting point and definitely bring some order otherwise chaotic and stressful time of year.

Do you file your taxes, or let a CPA handle it?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.Read my full disclosure policy here.

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http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/519569432/0/creativesavingsblog~The-Ultimate-Tax-Prep-Checklist/feed/42https://kalynbrooke.com/recipe-box/cheesy-garlic-bread-twists/Cheesy Garlic and Herb Twistshttp://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/518349728/0/creativesavingsblog~Cheesy-Garlic-and-Herb-Twists/
http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/518349728/0/creativesavingsblog~Cheesy-Garlic-and-Herb-Twists/#respondThu, 18 Jan 2018 11:00:23 +0000https://kalynbrooke.com?p=36136&preview=true&preview_id=36136Dazzle your guests with cheesy garlic bread twists that look like they took hours to make, but come together in less than 20 minutes! The herb and cheese mix sprinkled on top turns every savory bite into a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

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Dazzle your guests with cheesy garlic bread twists that look like they take hours to make, but come together in less than 20 minutes! The herb and cheese mix sprinkled on top turns every savory bite into a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Did you try this recipe?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

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http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/518349728/0/creativesavingsblog~Cheesy-Garlic-and-Herb-Twists/feed/0https://kalynbrooke.com/life-and-style/self-care/hygge-ideas/HYGGE 101: Here’s What Happens When You Adopt This Cozy Trendhttp://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/517902296/0/creativesavingsblog~HYGGE-Heres-What-Happens-When-You-Adopt-This-Cozy-Trend/
http://feeds.feedblitz.com/~/517902296/0/creativesavingsblog~HYGGE-Heres-What-Happens-When-You-Adopt-This-Cozy-Trend/#commentsTue, 16 Jan 2018 15:00:43 +0000https://kalynbrooke.com?p=36139&preview=true&preview_id=36139Do you long for the simpler things in life? These life-changing hygge ideas prove the secret to happiness isn't about wanting more.

Have you noticed the term Hygge popping up here, there, and everywhere?

If you haven't yet, you will soon.

It's kind of like when you buy a light blue VW, and suddenly one appears around every corner of your neighborhood. Crazy how that happens, right? It's not that your type of car has invaded your city, only that your awareness has.

The same thing is happening with Hygge.

While Hygge is a Danish term that's been around for a good long while, it's just now gaining traction all over the world.

Hygge is the next Marie Kondo craze, if you will, and in a crazy, fast-paced life where people are more and more desperate for simpler things, I expect the adoption of this trend will only get bigger.

I've been there, desperate for simple. I've felt the hustle too.

After years of late nights building this blog to a point of financial stability, I look back at the hundreds of missed moments because I've been so focused on that constantly moving finish line.

The truth is—there is no finish line. There's no destination. There's no “I've made it and there's nothing left to do.”

There's only the journey.

And I want that journey to be filled with joy and meaningful moments and appreciation for how far I've come, not how far I have to go. I want to be PRESENT—my guiding word for 2018.

So what are some practical ways you can fit more Hygge into your life?

Here are a few ideas:

1. Bring out the candles. Then actually light them. Create a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting. If you're looking for an excuse to splurge, this Anthropologie candle has THE BEST fragrance. Hint: it's slightly cheaper if you get it from Amazon!

2. Slip on a pair of fuzzy socks to give your feet maximum coziness and warmth.

3. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb. I've been implementing a strict 9pm screen-free time for the past few weeks and this one simple habit has helped me fall asleep so much quicker!

8. Snuggle up with a cozy blanket. Keep soft sherpa throws on the backs of couches or in a basket so they are within easy reach.

9. Hide the clutter. Part of shaping a Hygge home is creating a relaxing retreat. Keep surfaces clean to help clear your mind.

10. Make room for special treats. Cake, cinnamon rolls, brownies, and breads are most definitely Hygge. (In moderation, of course, so as not to cancel out those New Year's Resolutions!)

A Danish gal in my Brainbook Community Facebook Group loves practicing Hygge and recently shared her own tips to help us make the most of this cozy trend!

As I've lit more candles around my home, cozied up on the couch surrounded by blankets, and set aside my phone in lieu of conversation, something magical has happened: I've felt happier and more fulfilled.

Have you heard of Hygge before?

Disclosure: Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Rest assured, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. Read my full disclosure policy here.

Happiness Secrets

The Little Book of Hygge introduces you to the philosophy of Danish life and offers tips and advice to create a consciously cozy atmosphere in your own home.